Staying Warm and Safe: A Chilly Challenge

Freezing temperatures are expected to hit parts of the United States in the coming week. So, what should you do? Staying indoors is the best bet, but if you must venture out, be extra careful. Dangers like slipping on ice or car crashes can be lurking. Experts recommend taking a cautious approach. Before you head out, make sure to dress in layers and protect any skin that might be exposed. Frostbite and hypothermia are real threats out there. But how do you know if you or someone else has them? Let's break it down. Frostbite can strike fast, especially in extreme cold. Within five minutes, you can start to feel tingling or pain in areas like your fingers, toes, or face. That's your body's way of telling you to seek shelter. Once inside, check for discoloration or other clear signs of frostbite. The body's clever trick to preserve core organs is to reduce blood flow to the extremities.